Fashion and music have always gone hand in hand. Globally, musicians have ventured into the fashion industry, and in Nigeria, with the rise of Afrobeats on the global stage, it’s only a matter of time before fashion becomes the next frontier in celeb merchandising. While OG musicians like Ruggedman, Terry G, and Vector have launched clothing, shoe, and hat lines in the past, their brands struggled to scale and faded out.
Last week, one of the new crop of musicians who have ventured into fashion, Zlatan, faced backlash for the ₦800k price tag attached to a hoodie from his line, ZTTW. “Nigerian brands wicked gan,” one user posted on X with a screenshot of the hoodie. Another user said, “There’s absolutely no reason a Hoodie should cost ₦800k, absolutely none.” But is there?
Here we’ve ranked the seven best fashion brands owned by musicians of Nigerian descent.
If you follow London Fashion Week, you’ve likely seen Tinie Tempah as a familiar face in the fashion scene. The Nigerian-British musician launched his menswear brand, What We Wear, in 2017, blending modern streetwear with local influences to create bold, youth-centric designs.
Collections like 7 Days Till Lagos capture the fast-paced energy of Lagos, with stars like Wizkid and Not3s modelling for his runway shows. The brand has offered a range of stylish pieces, from hoodies and hats to luxury winter jackets.
Though it’s been a while since What We Wear released new collections, its past drops remain a staple for many fashion lovers.
Launched in 2025, BONFO is the brainchild of rising Afrobeats star, YKB. The brand’s name comes from the Yoruba word “bonfo,” which refers to outgrown clothes, though BONFO’s pieces are intentionally designed to fit.
The brand embraces baggy and playful silhouettes, featuring cropped tops and knee-length pants that blend contemporary fashion with traditional Nigerian aesthetics.
With its unique approach, BONFO marks YKB’s entry into the growing list of Nigerian musicians making waves in the fashion industry.
Best known for her music, Tomi Agape has now stepped into the fashion world as the founder and CEO of Guapé, a women’s shoe brand launched in 2024. Rather than waiting for her music career to take off, she took the leap and brought her vision to life.
As a lover of Manolo Blahniks and flowers — elements that shaped her childhood — Agape infuses floral aesthetics into her designs. Guapé has released collections like Orchid (including a boot version), Anthurium, Grizzly, Black Rose, and Court Heels. While the brand operates exclusively online, it offers stylish, high-quality footwear for women looking to make a statement.
If you’ve noticed the bold ZTTW tattoo on Zlatan’s stomach, then you’re already familiar with his fashion brand, Zanku to the World (ZTTW). Launched in May 2024, ZTTW is a fast-fashion streetwear label specializing in hats, hoodies, shirts, sweatshirts, and T-shirts.
The brand stems from the success of Zlatan’s 2018 viral hit “Zanku” and reflects his desire to explore his creativity beyond music while expanding his business ventures.
More than just a clothing line, ZTTW is low-key becoming part of the rollout strategy for Nigerian artists, drawing influencers and bloggers to its Lagos store. With premium cotton materials, vibrant embroidery, and bold prints, ZTTW caters to those who love high-end streetwear — though be prepared to splurge, as a single item can cost nearly a million naira.
Founded by Nigerian artist Straffitti (Olawale Olukolade), Thirsty Laboratory has become one of Nigeria’s leading streetwear brands, known especially for its standout denim designs worn by stars like Wizkid, Davido, and Zlatan.
Beyond denim, the brand offers tracksuits, track shorts, pants, bum shorts, hats, graphic and striped tees, and jerseys. Since its launch, Thirsty Lab has dressed some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars and even showcased its custom Jeanius Sanitarium V2.0.0 piece at the Milan Fashion Simulation Show in 2023.
Whether you’re into bold streetwear or luxury Nigerian fashion, Thirsty Lab likely has a statement piece for you.
Founded in 2017 by rapper Tyler, The Creator (Tyler Okonma), Golf Wang is a fashion brand deeply rooted in his signature style. Initially known for its vibrant, playful aesthetic — featuring patterned button-ups, colourful socks, and skate-inspired pieces — the brand has since evolved into a mix of streetwear and high fashion.
Over the years, Golf Wang has expanded into footwear, partnering with brands like Vans, Converse (for GOLF le FLEUR*), SUICOKE, and Lacoste (GOLF le COSTE* collection). Since 2019, each of Tyler’s albums has influenced Golf Wang’s creative direction, introducing more sophisticated pieces like ushanka hats, double-breasted blazers, high-waisted trousers, and vintage briefcases.
Tyler’s vision has even led to collaborations with major fashion houses like Louis Vuitton and Supreme, solidifying Golf Wang as a brand that blends fun, nostalgia, and luxury.
Skepta, born Joseph Olaitan Adenuga, launched his unisex fashion brand Mains in 2017, bringing his signature blend of streetwear and high fashion to the industry. Early on, he collaborated with Nike to release acclaimed sneakers like the Air Max 97 SK, Air Max BW/97 Hybrid, and Shox TL, during the peak of his “SK Level” era.
By 2020, Mains took a luxury turn, partnering with Bottega Veneta to create upscale collections that merge the aesthetic of UK roadmen (hustlers) with corporate elegance. Skepta even starred in Bottega’s Wardrobe 02 campaign in 2021, further solidifying his influence in the fashion world.
By late 2022, Mains had split with Nike. In 2023, it rebooted with support from Puma, although they quickly parted ways in 2024 due to Puma-Israeli ties and Skepta’s political stance.
The Mains brand continues to thrive independently, expanding its catalogue beyond collaborations. From fly tracksuits and denim jackets to custom flannels, slick underwear, knitwear, crochet designs, and structured outerwear silhouettes, Mains embodies a distinct fusion of street style and luxury. It’s a brand that perfectly captures the essence of street luxury.
If you live in Nigeria, chances are the products you use daily — from food to gadgets — are mostly imported. Whether it’s your phone, car, or even sugar, foreign brands dominate the market. However, Nigerian alternatives are often cheaper, sometimes better, and perfectly tailored to our local needs.
We’ve rounded up 20 made-in-Nigeria products that give their imported counterparts a run for their money. Some are household names, while others might surprise you.
Food & Beverages
1. Golden Penny Choco Spread vs Nutella Chocolate Spread
Nutella might have the fancy branding, but Golden Penny Choco Spread is a creamy, chocolatey delight made in Nigeria. It’s as rich and spreadable, and you won’t have to pay premium import prices.
4. Golden Penny Sugar Cubes vs St Louis Sugar Cubes
The Golden Penny sugar cubes cost less than St Loius’s. Nigeria imports raw sugar primarily from Brazil, which is then refined at the three major licensed sugar refineries: Dangote, Golden Penny and Bua. In contrast, St Louis Sugar, a French product, is imported into Nigeria by the Milan Group, an Indian business.
6. Devon King’s Vegetable Oil vs Wesson Canola Vegetable Oil
Devon King’s vegetable oil is locally refined and fortified with Vitamin A, and is cheaper than its imported counterpart because it doesn’t include international shipping costs.
Golden Penny Spaghetti, made in Nigeria, is a household favourite known for its non-sticky texture and quick cooking time. It is a budget-friendly alternative to the imported Barilla Spaghetti, which costs more due to import duties.
Dudu Osun isn’t just cheaper; it’s also organic, deep-cleansing, and more well-suited to African skin. Why pay more for imported soap? Dove bar soap is great, but it costs more.
11. VSP Botanics Hyaluronic Acid Serum vs The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Hydration is key to great skin, and “VSP Botanics Hyaluronic Acid” contains 2% of the same Hyaluronic acid as “The Ordinary,” but it’s way cheaper. This review from TikTok notes that the VSP Botanics Serum is great for hydration after cleansing.
12. Skin By Zaron Retinol Serum vs CeraVe Retinol Serum
Skin By Zaron’s Retinol Serum, formulated for Nigerian skin, offers the same anti-ageing and skin-renewing benefits as the imported CeraVe Retinol Serum but at a lower price. As this review from TikTok puts it, the product diminishes the appearance of hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. It’s also great for improving hyperpigmentation and treating acne.
Polystar fridges are durable, energy-efficient, affordable, built to meet Nigeria’s power supply challenges and significantly cheaper than the LG option.
Viva is a great detergent that is just as effective as Ariel but way more affordable. Ariel is a brand owned by Procter & Gamble, an American multinational consumer goods corporation.
AfriOne makes affordable, high-performance smartphones designed for Nigeria’s tech needs. This “My Daily Tech” review reveals: “This phone is a beast for battery life. After 1 hour on-screen and 19 hours off-screen, it only consumed 13% of the battery.”
Innoson Cars are assembled in Nnewi, Anambra state, and 70% of their car parts are sourced locally. Best of all, the Innoson G6 is durable and more affordable than a Toyota Highlander.
Innoson G6 = ₦32,000,000 (2.4 L engine mid-sized SUV)
Toyota Highlander = ₦100,000,000 (2.4 L engine mid-sized SUV)
Source: Tekedia & Selatease
Innoson G80 vs Mercedes Benz G 580
This review from Twitter suggests that another of the brand’s product, the Innoson G80, may be better than an original Mercedes-Benz G-Class, colloquially known as the G-Wagon, made in Germany. In his words: “The Nigerian Innoson G80 is pretty sexy and like a third of the price of a G-Wagon.”
Nigerian brands compete with the best, from tech to transport and food to fashion. If you’re tired of overpaying for products, maybe it’s time to start shopping Nigerian-made.
The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, will Launch Screen Nigeria at the Cannes Film Festival through Nigeria’s cultural and tourism promotion brand, Nigeria Everywhere.
Screen Nigeria is a platform dedicated to celebrating and promoting Nigeria’s vibrant film, television and audiovisual industry.
Focused on empowering creators and showcasing Nollywood’s global impact, Screen Nigeria fosters collaboration, innovation, and storytelling that highlights the richness of Nigerian culture and talent.
From spotlighting the latest productions to fostering discussions on industry trends, Screen Nigeria serves as the voice of a vibrant, evolving industry that continues to reach global audiences.
Screen Nigeria is a brand of Nigeria’s official cultural and Tourism Brand, “Nigeria EveryWhere”.
It will coordinate the national representation at international markets and festivals, showcasing Nigerian films, television, and animation.
To help achieve this, it will deploy the Nigerian Pavilion at various fora.
Barrister Musa Musawa stated, “Cinema holds a special place in any nation’s cultural and artistic landscape. Its ability to cut across boundaries and connect diverse people while giving them the voice to tell their stories has made it a mainstay of human existence for decades. With Screen Nigeria, we are looking to turbocharge the growth experienced in recent years by our audiovisual sector, elevating it to be globally competitive while also opening up new frontiers, such as animation, for the local market.”
Screen Nigeria will leverage the audiovisual industry and its value chains as a catalyst to achieve the headline Destination 2030 objectives of job creation and increased GDP contribution. Currently, Destination 2030 aims to create 2 million jobs and contribute $100 billion to Nigeria’s GDP by 2030
Key Targets
● Promoting the Nigerian audiovisual industry internationally to increase visibility and access to our products and talents.
● Promoting Nigeria as a destination for production.
● Promoting Nigeria as a destination for outsourced audiovisual work (postproduction, animation and game creation).
● Attracting FDI through promoting investment incentives, production tax credits, co-production treaties, facilities, talents and services available locally.
Nigeria Pavillion
The Nigerian Pavilion will be at the centre of activities, serving as the hub for Nigeria’s engagements at the various festivals. It will bring together audiovisual stakeholders, creating a harmonised agenda for the country.
2025 Destinations
■ Marche du Film/Cannes International Film Festival, Canns ■ Toronto International Film Festival, Toronto ■ African International Film Festival, Lagos ■ Zuma International Film Festival, Abuja ■ Red Sea Film Festival, Jeddah
About Nigeria Everywhere
Destination 2030: Nigeria Everywhere is a transformative initiative of Nigeria’s Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy dedicated to exporting Nigeria’s creative products and talent to the global marketplace. The initiative will drive international recognition and market access for Nigerian excellence in film, arts, food, music, fashion, etc., establishing sustainable pathways for creators to reach worldwide audiences.
The initiative will build market linkages through strategic partnerships with federal government agencies and international collaborators, driving the commercial success of Nigeria’s creative and cultural products in the global market. Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council, on Tuesday, 4th February 2025, officially adopted ‘Destination 2030; Nigeria Everywhere’ as Nigeria’s Global Soft Power and Tourism brand to position Nigeria as a prominent global hub for Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy.
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It’s about to be a hell of a day for patients at the University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan because their doctors have decided to stand on their ten toes against the horrible condition they’ve had to live in for months.
What’s going on?
On Monday, February 17, members of the Association of Resident Doctors at UCH Ibadan officially embarked on an indefinite strike to protest the electricity blackout in some parts of the hospital. This story actually goes way back; stay with me.
How it started
UCH owed the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) so much money (₦3.1 billion to be exact), and the electricity company had been patient with them since 2019 when the bill started piling up. But on October 26, 2024, they decided they had enough and cut off the hospital’s power supply over an outstanding ₦400 million debt, part of its accumulated bill.
102 days of darkness
For 102 days, the entire teaching hospital was in absolute darkness. Both doctors, patients, and students in the hospital were deeply frustrated by this, and they spoke out several times. The first was through a protest held in November 2024 by relatives of the hospital’s patients; “We are tired of our loved ones suffering; patients are dying because they cannot receive the medical tests needed for treatment,” one of the protesters said at the time.
Nothing was done about the complaints raised in the November protest, so months later, medical students schooling in the teaching hospital protested on January 25, 2025, in State and Federal Secretariats about the same issue, yet nothing was done. On February 10, they organised a second protest at the office of the hospital’s Chief Medical Director (CMD). Power was restored to the hospital two days later, except it didn’t get to the doctors’ quarters.
The last straw
It was one thing when the entire hospital did not have light, and it was a different level of frustration seeing that the main hospital had been disconnected while residential parts of the hospital remained in darkness. The resident doctors at UCH weren’t having it, so on Friday, February 14, they held an emergency meeting, and issued an ultimatum after, saying they’d go on an indefinite strike if power was not restored to the residential areas of the hospital, latest, 4 pm on Monday, February 17.
The doctors were not shitting around because after they saw that their warnings were ignored, they embarked on the strike just like they said they would and at the time they specified.
Why does this matter?
It’s a no-brainer— the doctors at UCH have endured horrible working conditions and deserve better. Additionally, the absence of doctors has automatically put the lives of patients at risk, but the authorities who should solve both problems are not doing anything about it.
It’s even crazier because UCH is not the only Nigerian hospital that has had to deal with poor electricity supply. The Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) have had this issue in the past, and so have Primary Healthcare Centres in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), AKA, where the President lives.
While the primary concern in these situations is usually the well-being of the patients, the medical professionals suffer, too. It’s not just poor power supply; they also have to endure other terrible things like late and sometimes non-payment of salaries. The situation is so bad that 16,000 doctors have left Nigeria in five years. It got even worse because, in 2024 alone, a whopping 15,000 doctors left the country.
As of March 2024, there were only 55,000 licensed doctors in Nigeria. Lagos and Abuja alone had a huge chunk of the doctor population (12,300), leaving the rest of the country with 42,700.
With the crazy number of doctors’ exodus recorded in 2024, Nigeria might be in big soup because even more doctors might leave, as nothing much has changed. This possible reduction in the doctor population will leave Nigeria open to massive casualties in the event of a disease outbreak. With big donors like the United States taking a step back in foreign aid, there is no better time for the government to sit up than now.
What can you do to change things?
Part of the oversight functions of the National Assembly is to summon government officials and ministries for questioning over poor performance and other similar issues. The medical sector is long overdue for serious intervention, but since that has not happened yet, you can pressure the National Assembly into taking action by doing the following:
Reach out to the lawmaker representing your constituency and tell them what you want. You can find their contact details here.
Consistently talk about it on social media through the use of hashtags. Start a digital campaign by creating a petition for a state of emergency or urgent intervention in Nigeria’s healthcare system. You can create your petition on platforms like this.
Start a digital campaign by creating a petition for a state of emergency or urgent intervention in Nigeria’s healthcare system. You can create your petition on platforms like this.
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Everyone wants to move out until they see the bill. From rents that wipe out your savings to the unexpected cost of feeding, moving out comes with a reality check that no one prepares young people for.
We spoke to five young Nigerians about the true cost of living alone: financially, emotionally and everything in between.
After NYSC in January 2023, I stayed back in Lagos. Moving back home to Ilé-Ifẹ̀ wasn’t an option — everyone I knew was making big moves, getting jobs, or relocating. I wanted to prove I could be independent, too.
I lived with a friend in Gbagada during my service year, but I had to find my own place after I got a job as an operations associate at an IT firm. My office was in Ikoyi, where rent starts at ₦5 million. That wasn’t happening on my ₦170k salary.
A friend was moving out of their ₦500k self-contained apartment in Iwaya, Yaba, so I took it. My parents covered the rent, and I got some basic furniture with my ₦150k NYSC savings.
Then, the bills started rolling in.
I had to pay ₦70k/month for transport. My breakfast at work costs ₦20k monthly. Additional foodstuffs ran into ₦35k. Electricity, water, and data cost ₦20k.
I tracked my monthly spending on transport, food, and other essentials and started budgeting accordingly. Each month, I set aside the exact amount I’d need in Cowrywise. If my salary didn’t come in on time, I’d be completely broke and have to call home for help, so I started setting aside ₦20k as a safety net. After covering all my expenses, I was left with about ₦20k for miscellaneous spending, which I often used to plan an outing with friends.
For a few months, I owed the vendor in front of my house some money for basic household essentials. I skipped meals often, fell sick regularly, and occasionally when the water stopped running, I had to buy five kegs daily for weeks.
Work also drained me. My bosses constantly made me feel like I was incompetent. I had no time for myself—just work, home, and survival. It felt like I was working to live. On some nights, I talked to my neighbour, sat at the vendor’s stall outside my gate, or went to the football viewing centre or a bar down the street just because I wanted to be around people. The loneliness crept in quickly.
By November 2024, 10 months after I moved, I couldn’t take it anymore. I quit my job and moved back home, not even using up my rent. In retrospect, my biggest mistake was moving out without a solid plan for financial stability. Rent was just the first expense—sustaining myself was the real challenge.
If I had upskilled and increased my earning potential before leaving home, maybe I wouldn’t have had to come back. Right now, I’m optimising for career mobility and prioritising opportunities that allow me to grow. Once I’ve built the stability I need, I’ll be ready to move out and live on my own again.
I have two rented apartments: a self-contained one in Abuja that costs ₦750k/year and a five-bedroom in Kaduna that costs ₦1.7 million. I originally got the Kaduna apartment to use as an Airbnb, but I didn’t get around to setting it up. If not for my master’s degree programme in Abuja and most of my clients being there, I’d stay in Kaduna full-time because of its cheaper cost of living.
₦200k covers all my monthly expenses in Kaduna. However, I spend ₦270k on food alone in Abuja because I don’t cook there. Transport costs roughly ₦150k, and travelling back and forth sets me back ₦44k monthly. Data takes ₦50k, and electricity another ₦20k weekly — easily my biggest shock. All of this comes out of my ₦700k average income.
I love my personal space and the freedom that comes with living alone, but the best part is also the worst part — you’re the Alpha and Omega of your space. If something needs to be done, you either do it yourself or it doesn’t get done. Sometimes, you wish someone could just handle things for you, but that’s not an option.
That said, living alone has also pushed me to earn more. No one forced me to move out, so why should I call home for help? That mindset pushes me to hustle harder.
Eniola, 23 ( Content Creator, Lagos, ₦350k/Month)
I moved into a room and parlour apartment in Berger in December 2024, and I paid ₦1 million for it. I didn’t want to, but I also didn’t want to move back home after NYSC.
I’d lived briefly with my aunt. And when she travelled in July, I had to move in with my uncle. By November, my uncle and his entire family were pressuring me to leave. They claimed they were travelling to the U.S. for Christmas, so I needed to find my own place. I didn’t take them seriously—until they packed all their travel boxes in my room.
That was my cue.
I had to squat with a friend while desperately house-hunting. In the end, I took whatever was available. The worst part? I ran into my uncle’s wife in the area in December. They never travelled; they just wanted me out.
Thankfully, I had saved ₦700k from my pastry business in university and another ₦400k during my NYSC year—from my salary, modelling gigs, and content creation. Rent alone wiped out 90% of my entire savings, and I was left with just ₦100k. Fortunately, my parents sent everything I needed to furnish the apartment from our family’s home in Ibadan, so I managed. I was broke and depressed, praying for a breakthrough.
I got one.
One month after moving in, I landed a ₦350k full-time content creator job. The social media management job I had before that didn’t pay up to ₦100k.
Looking back, this experience toughened me up. If I had stayed in my comfort zone, I wouldn’t have taken my finances seriously. Now, I have no choice but to fend for myself, and I needed that push.
Imade, 26 ( Journalist, Lagos, ₦800k/Month)
I’ve been living alone since I was 19. My parents separated when I was 13, and after years in boarding school, I was already used to my own company. Beyond that, I liked the freedom of being on my own.
At the moment, I live in a mini-flat in Gbagada. It’s my little sanctuary— I get the cool breeze and quiet, and it’s all mine. But living alone isn’t just about peace and privacy; it’s also about money.
My rent is ₦1.8 million, and I made sure I could save for it without ruining my finances. I asked myself: Can I comfortably set aside rent money for six months to a year? So, I split my salary into two and saved the other half monthly. This approach helped me ensure I wasn’t overstretching myself.
I learned early that Lagos doesn’t care about your comfort. My first year here was a reality check. After NYSC, I moved from Ibadan to my dad’s house in Ikorodu while working in Ikeja. When I got a job in Lekki, things got worse; I was waking up at 4 a.m., leaving home an hour later, and still getting to work late. On some days, I took the waterway to save time, but it was still exhausting. My mum found me a temporary place with a family friend on the Island, but I needed my own space.
Eventually, my mum contacted another friend who was renting out a self-contained apartment for ₦300k. I had saved ₦200k, but I needed more for rent and basics—mattress, curtains, kitchen utensils. Another family friend loaned me the rest and later forgave the debt. I was very grateful for the generosity. I also had to be cautious of my spending, because I was living on a ₦150k salary. My biggest expenses besides rent were electricity, transportation, and black tax.
I had no financial shocks because I have always taken care of myself. But I won’t lie; I wish I didn’t have to pay rent so I could save more. I’ve had to cut back on food and transport and even take on extra work. Food is my biggest betrayal. I used to budget ₦15k for food a month, but now, ₦30k isn’t enough. But as long as I have food at home, I feel okay. Even when I’m “broke”, which, to me, means having ₦150k–₦200k.
Would I ever move back home? Only if there’s no other option in the entire universe.
If you’re thinking about moving out, ask yourself: Can you really afford it? If you split your salary in two and save for six months, would rent break you? House hunting in Lagos is the ghetto. I nearly gave up and went back home. So, plan well, save aggressively, and don’t rush.
I stayed back in Ibadan after finishing NYSC in October 2024. I initially lived in a self-contained apartment with a colleague, but later, we moved into a two-bedroom flat that cost ₦1 million. We split the rent equally: ₦500k each.
I had managed to save ₦150k from my NYSC Primary Place of Assignment (PPA) because there was an option to receive payment in bulk at the end of the service year. I paid my share of the rent using my savings and additional income from a crypto trade I did in September, which earned me $400.
Now, I work as a virtual assistant and earn ₦200k monthly. My biggest expense is food, which takes ₦70k/month because I barely cook. Data and gym subscriptions take another ₦30k each, electricity is ₦6k, and I spend about ₦20k on transportation since I rarely go out.
I never had to think about fixing things until I moved out. Now, when something breaks—like when our pumping machine got damaged—it’s my headache.
The best part has been developing a stronger sense of responsibility. I have to plan for everything — new purchases, house expenses, savings. I don’t regret moving out, but I do get lonely. I barely hang out, and my friends are all busy with work. Lately, all I think about is working more hours so I can earn enough to sustain myself.
Bottom Line
If you’re comfortable in your parent’s house and not under pressure to leave, stay and save aggressively. Moving out isn’t just about rent — it’s about sustaining yourself, and the costs add up fast. But if you’re ready to take the leap, plan well, increase your earning potential, and prepare for the unexpected.
In Nigeria, birthdays are more than just personal annual milestones marked by cakes and heaping plates of rice. They are deeply cultural and often religious celebrations. Whether celebrated with a large party or a quiet gathering of friends, birthdays offer an opportunity to shower the celebrant with love, gifts, thoughtful birthday wishes, and heartfelt birthday messages.
“A simple ‘Happy birthday!’ message is okay o, but when someone takes the time to send a thoughtful message, it feels different,” says Ibk, a 28-year-old lawyer from Lagos. “It reminds you that you’re special to them.” Christiana, a 23-year-old marketing intern in Lagos, agrees. “I love receiving really heartfelt birthday messages; they make me feel like the main character of my day.”
In this article, we’ve compiled over 300 happy birthday wishes from real Nigerians, included a step-by-step guide on crafting your own heartfelt birthday wishes, and answered some of the most common questions Nigerians have about birthday wishes. Whether you need a message for a close friend, romantic partner, boss, colleague, or sibling, you’ll find the perfect words to celebrate their special day here.
In this section, you’ll find birthday messages from real Nigerians that you can copy directly or use as inspiration for yours [a more detailed guide for crafting yours is at the end of this article]. From simple to heartfelt, here are 300+ birthday messages you can send to your friends, family, coworkers and lovers.
Simple Birthday Wishes for Anyone
Best for: General use, acquaintances, and when you need a quick but heartfelt message.
An amazing message for your birthday puts a smile on your face.
If you’re ever in doubt when sending a birthday message, go the short-and-sweet route. Especially when you’re not very close to the person — like an acquaintance or a work colleague — a simple, well-meaning birthday wish should do the trick.
“I prefer to send a short, to-the-point birthday message when it’s for someone I don’t know well,” says Tolu, 26. “It’s polite, and it won’t be as if you’re famzing them.”
Check out these simple yet effective birthday messages to make your next birthday text the best.
Happy birthday! Wishing you the best the year has to offer.
Happy birthday, Daddy. I wish you a long and prosperous life
Wishing you many happy returns on this special day. Happy birthday!
Happy birthday, Chima. You’re such a superstar!
Happy birthday, Ma. May God sustain you in good health of mind and body.
Happy birthday! You’re amazing, and I’m beyond blessed to call you my friend.
Wishing you an amazing year ahead. Happy birthday.
Happy birthday to an amazing person. Have an amazing one!
Cheers on celebrating a new year. Happy birthday.
Sending you good wishes on your special day. Happy birthday.
Another year of greatness unlocked! Wishing you a year full of happiness and prosperity.
As you celebrate your new age, may God continue to bless and protect you.
Cheers to another trip around the sun! Wishing you a fantastic birthday celebration.
Wishing you a day as bright and beautiful as your smile. Happy birthday.
Wishing you a day as bright and beautiful as your smile. Happy birthday.
Cheers to more life and more blessings! Wishing you a fantastic birthday.
Happy birthday! May your year be filled with answered prayers and fulfilled dreams.
Here’s to a new chapter! Wishing you a year filled with open doors and endless opportunities.
Happy birthday! Wishing you a day as special as you are.
Happy birthday! May you continue to age gracefully.
Wishing you a Happy birthday. May God’s blessings overflow in your life this year.
Happy birthday, friend. May Almighty God bless your new age.
Best for: Boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife.
Delight your lover with a thoughtful, romantic birthday message
It’s expected that as someone’s significant other, your birthday message must leave everyone else’s in the dust. Sending a sweet birthday wish for your girlfriend or boyfriend at the stroke of midnight will earn you points like you wouldn’t believe.
Tominsin, 28, says,” I look forward to my boyfriend’s wishes the most when my birthday comes around.”
So you see you have to come correct? Don’t worry we’ve curated this lovely selection of romantically charged messages for your favourite person.
Happy birthday, my love! You make every day special, and today, I celebrate you with all my heart.
To the most amazing partner, your love makes my world brighter. Wishing you a birthday as beautiful as you.
My darling, you make my heart sing. Today is your birthday but you are God’s gift to us. I pray this year brings you opportunities you’ve only ever dreamed about.
Happy birthday to the bone of my bone, my reason for breathing, my favourite person! I pray God showers you with even more blessings.
Happy birthday, my love. May all the joy in the world be laid at your feet because you deserve it.
Cheers to another birthday, my baby. Everyday I thank God for putting you on this earth and allowing me to experience you.
Happy birthday to the beat of my heart. Your laughter is my favourite sound and I pray that this new age you’re entering is filled with laughter and joy for the entire year.
I remember when we met, and I knew instantly that you were special. Thank you for proving me right every single day with your amazing personality and immeasurable beauty. Happy birthday, my love.
Happy birthday to the one who hung the moon in my sky. Thank you, baby, for all the things you do for our little family. There is no greater joy than waking up each morning to see your face.
Happy birthday, my queen! I will count every speck of sand on all the beaches if it means you will be happy. I love seeing you smile, and I pray that God gives you uncountable reasons to smile as you grow older.
Happy birthday, my husband. Holding your love in my heart is more precious than any gift I could ever give you. Still, I’m excited to shower you with all the gifts and love I can. Enjoy your special day!
Happy birthday, baby! I’m so proud of you and everything you have accomplished. I wish you even more success and happiness as you age gracefully.
Happy birthday, my darling. You look even more beautiful than you did the day we met. I pray that success continues to come easily to you. I’m so happy I get to do life with you.
You stole my heart but you can keep it — it’s safest with a soul like yours. I can’t wait to see the amazing things you accomplish in your new age. Happy birthday onyinye’m.
My love, I have tasted no other spirit as generous, wonderful and kind as yours. I’m grateful to God that I can stand by your side as you mark another trip around the sun. I will love you for as long as the earth spins. Happy birthday!
Happy birthday to the groundnut to my banana, the pepper to my pepper soup and my favourite partner in crime. I pray this new year takes you to new heights. I’ll be right beside you every step of the way.
On this special day, I want you to know how much you mean to me. You’re my everything, and I’m so grateful for you. I wouldn’t trade you for the world. Happy birthday, my love.
Happy birthday to the man who makes my heart soar above the clouds. I pray God’s strength never leaves your side. I love you forever.
Happy birthday! My admiration for you cannot be captured in words or in ink. Your beauty surpasses language, but I will keep trying to find the words to tell you just how much I love you.
Cheers to another spin around the sun! My darling, my love for you is boundless. I pray that God continues to protect you and shield you. May His blessings and my love be with you always.
Happy birthday, my love! I’m so grateful to have you as my wife. You are amazing, and I’m honoured to share this journey with you. On this special day, I want to remind you how much you mean to me. Your kindness, beauty, and love inspire me every day. Wishing you the very best, my dear!
Pour your heart out in a lovely birthday messages.
Nothing warms the heart like a heartfelt birthday message from someone who loves you. Dare, 25, says,” One of my friends is so good at writing heart-squeezing birthday messages that when I’m down — even months after — I go back and reread them, and they make me feel better.”
Bayo, 26, feels the same way about the messages from his grandma. “Though she passed away over a decade ago, I’ve kept all of my grandmother’s handwritten birthday notes to me, and I still read them every year,” he says.
Your heartfelt message can be long or short, depending on how well you know the person and their personal preferences. A good heartfelt wish can warm the heart for a long time. Take a leaf from our book and use this to create the perfect heartfelt message for your loved ones.
Happy birthday! May this new year bring you closer to your dreams and fill your life with purpose and joy.
You have a heart of gold. Wishing you all the happiness in the world today!
Happy birthday, my mentor. Learning from you has been an amazing experience. May God bless you exceedingly this year.
You are such an incredible person. Wishing you an amazing birthday bursting with joy, love and happiness.
I’m so grateful to God for your existence. There has been no day that has passed that you haven’t put a smile on my face. I pray God fills your cup with joy all year. Happy birthday.
I appreciate everything you do for us and our family, bro. There aren’t enough thanks in the world to express the depth of my gratitude. I wish you the happiest birthday!
Wishing you a birthday as beautiful as your spirit. May this year bring you peace, love, and countless reasons to celebrate.
Happy birthday to the bravest, most resilient person I know. May the year unfold before you with ease.
Happy birthday! May laughter come easy to your lips, may sleep come easily to your eyes and may God continue to crown your efforts with glory.
Cheers to a new age! May God bless you, keep you and make his face shine upon you this year.
Happy birthday! Wishing you success that makes all the years of your hard work worth it!
Happy birthday, big boy! I’m so proud of you and how much you’ve grown. I can’t wait to see what you do this year!
Happy birthday, my person! Ever since the first day we met, I knew our friendship was something special. I pray you continue to meet success at every point of your journey this year.
Happy birthday! You are such a blessing to our family! We wish you long life and prosperity.
On your special day, I pray that God blesses you with health, happiness, and all the desires of your heart.
Happy birthday! May your heart be filled with gratitude and your life with abundance. You deserve all the good things coming your way.
Happy birthday, my dear. Watching how hard you’ve worked to get to where you are is nothing short of inspiring! I’m wishing you the best of the year and those to come!
Happy birthday! May your heart be filled with joy and your life with endless blessings. You deserve all the happiness in the world.
Happy birthday! I love you so much! You always put a smile on my face, and I pray happiness is always within your reach this year.
Happy birthday, star girl. As you are a joy to those around you, I pray God also fills your life with boundless joy.
Happy birthday! May your day be as bright as your smile and as warm as your heart. You are a blessing to everyone around you.
Best for: Friends, colleagues, mentors, and anyone needing encouragement.
Motivate them with a well-penned birthday message.
Birthday messages can also inspire someone who needs encouragement. They can keep you motivated and are perfect for cheering on a friend, colleague, or mentor to take on any challenges they face. “There are some birthday messages you receive that make you want to get right back to work because of how much the sender believes in you,” says Jola, 25.
Use any of these messages to inspire and motivate someone close to you on their next birthday!
May your birthday mark the beginning of a fulfilling and successful year ahead!
Wishing you strength, wisdom, and all the blessings you deserve in this new chapter.
Happy birthday to the hardest worker I know! May all your efforts be crowned with success.
I admire your work ethic so much! Wishing you the creme de la creme of the year!
As you begin to see the fruits of your labour these past few years, I pray that your hard work continues to be rewarded.
Happy birthday! Your efforts will never go to waste, and I want you to know that the team appreciates you so much!
What would we have done if you weren’t there when times were tough? I shudder to think about it. I am grateful that we have you in our corner. Wishing you the happiest birthday!
Your work on the last project confirmed to me that you are destined to be a household name! Wishing you all the best on your birthday.
Happy birthday to the most amazing woman. There is nothing you can’t accomplish!
Happy birthday, dear! It’s so amazing that this isn’t even your final form! Wishing you a year filled with exploits and success.
Cheers on your special day! As you continue to push the standard with your amazing ideas, I pray God continues to bless you and take you higher.
Happy birthday to you. You are an inspiration to everyone around you, and I am so lucky to know you and learn from you. May the year be filled with joy and prosperity for you.
Wishing you a long happy life on your birthday. The world has been waiting for someone just like you to change it!
On your special day, remember that every challenge you’ve faced has made you stronger. Keep pushing forward — your best is yet to come!
Happy birthday, superstar! The sky isn’t your limit — it’s your starting point!
Happy birthday! Watching you face and defeat every obstacle in your path has been nothing short of inspirational. Wishing you even more success this year.
Happy birthday and congratulations on yet another feather in your cap! May God continue to make exploits easy for you.
On your special day, I thank you for being an inspiration and a beacon of light to everyone around you. Happy birthday.
Cheers to a new age! May your work continue to place you on a global stage. I wish you success this year.
Happy birthday, boss. Your passion for what you do is nothing short of inspirational. I pray that God continues to bless you and your family this year.
Happy balloon day! May you continue to be celebrated by those around you.
Nigerians take milestone birthdays very seriously, so carefully crafting a birthday message they’ll love is of utmost importance. Landmark ages like 18, 21, 30, and 40 are the perfect opportunity to celebrate the life of the celebrant and how far they’ve come.
“My 30th birthday was an eye-opening one,” says Dami, 31. ”The messages my friends sent me touched my heart and made turning thirty a little less scary for me.”
Take a look at this selection of milestone birthday messages that are sure to put a smile on the face of anyone who receives them.
Happy birthday, sis! You’re finally an adult! May your eighteenth year be full of laughter and adventure.
As you step into the world of adulthood on your eighteenth birthday, I pray God gives you the wisdom to make the best choices.
Happy twentieth birthday! May this decade be full of discovery, growth, and unforgettable memories.
Cheers on turning 21! Now, you can drink alcohol in every country in the world!
Welcome to your thirtieth! May this decade be your best yet.
Welcome to a new decade! There is always time to accomplish something amazing. I pray your 30s bring you all the joy and success you desire.
Happy thirtieth birthday! This is going to be the beginning of an amazing era for an amazing person.
Happy thirtieth birthday, sis! I promise you the best is yet to come because you deserve it.
Happy 30th birthday! Welcome to the club where confidence meets wisdom. Your best years are just beginning!
Welcome to the fourth floor! May this new decade be filled with joy and happiness for you.
Happy fortieth birthday. May God continue to see you through every year of your life.
It is said that as wine ages, it becomes better. I wish you even better success and happiness on your fortieth birthday.
Happy birthday to an amazing mentor. You have used your forty years of life to inspire and motivate everyone around you. I pray God blesses and regards you.
Happy fiftieth! Wishing you even more joy, success, and wisdom in the years ahead.
Happy golden jubilee to the most amazing aunt there is! I pray you see another fifty years on this earth with us. I love you.
I wish you the best on your sixtieth birthday, sir. May God continue to bless and strengthen you as you grow older.
Happy seventieth birthday, Grandma! On your seventieth birthday, I pray God continues to bless you and be your shield.
On your seventieth birthday, I wish you the best of the year and the softest of landings.
Happy twentieth anniversary of your twentieth birthday! As you turn 80, I pray that your hands never weaken at work and your mind is always open to new creative ideas.
Happy eightieth birthday, grandma! Yours is a life well-lived, and I praise God for you. Here’s to even more years of love and laughter.
Best for: Close friendships, best friends, and people who have been there for you.
When your friends are there, it’s always a party.
A heartfelt birthday message to a friend can truly deepen your bond with them, especially if you gain a reputation for remembering birthdays.
“My best friend has sent me a birthday message every birthday at midnight for the last six years,” says Dami. 28. ”I wouldn’t trade her for the world.”
Take a look at these messages and use one or two to delight your friends on their birthdays.
Happy birthday, bestie! Life wouldn’t be the same without you. I love you more than I can put into words.
Another year older, wiser, and still as amazing as ever. Wishing you all the best!
Happy birthday, bestie. Every version of the universe without you is a desolate, colourless place. I am so happy that we get to do life together.
Happy birthday to the piece that makes my life make sense. May this year be full of untold joy for you.
Happy birthday, my G! I see how hard you’ve been working, and I pray that God rewards every effort you have put into your work.
Cheers to the most amazing gal in the world. You are the five to my six, and I cannot wait to celebrate even more years with you.
Happy birthday, my darling friend. I am so lucky to know you, and I pray that God grants you all your heart’s desires.
Happy birthday to my BFF. No distance, no depth is wide or deep enough to separate us. Here’s to another amazing year.
All 30+ people stand up! That includes you now, o! It’s been so wonderful watching you grow into the amazing person you have become today. May God continue to bless you.
Happy birthday, ore mi! You are a star! And I pray that the whole world gets to see you shine this year.
Happy birthday to the absolute life of the party. I pray we share even more good times together.
Happy birthday, my G! Where the oblee dey happen? May joy never be far from your mouth and may God keep your heart soft.
From secondary school until now, you have been the best friend a girl could ever ask for. I pray that God surprises you with the amount of blessings you receive this year.
There is not a single person as unique and loveable as you are. On your birthday, I wish you the very best because no one is more deserving.
Happy birthday to the kindest of souls. I pray that people gather to celebrate with you this new year.
Happy birthday, my personal person! You are so important to me, and you deserve the world. May this year be full of ease and happiness for you, in Jesus’ name.
Felicitations to the baddest bih! May God bless you and keep you for me.
Special birthday wishes to the best friend a girl could ask for. I pray we spend more happy years together.
Happy birthday, my darling. You are proof that great things come in the craziest packages. Thank you for being the piece that completes me.
Happy birthday, bestie! Thank you for being my safe space, my happy place, and my everything. Love you forever!
Happy birthday to my favourite human! Your friendship is evidence of God’s love for me. May your path always be clear, and may good things come to you with ease.
Cheers to your new age, my dear friend! May this year overflow with success and happiness.
It’s my favourite day of the year: your birthday! I pray that God satisfies every need you have, grants you peace, and keeps you so we can celebrate even more years together.
Happy birthday to my bestie! You deserve everything good, and I pray God brings all of it and more to your doorstep this year.
Happy birthday to my partner in fun! May God bless you and keep you. I pray your cup overflows with joy this year. I love you!
Best for: Family members like parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers and sisters
What better way to celebrate your family than with a lovely birthday message?
Family is truly everything. They are the first people you socialise, fight and celebrate with. Sending a thoughtful message to your family members on their birthdays will keep that blood bond tight and put a well-deserved smile on their faces.
“I’m not much of a birthday guy, but when my little sister sends me birthday messages, my day lights up,” says Tola. “I sacrificed a lot to provide for my family after my father passed, and it always feels really good to be appreciated.”
Happy Birthday Wishes for Your Mum and Aunt
Happy birthday, Mum! Thank you for your endless love and sacrifices. I celebrate you today and always.
Happy birthday to the most extraordinary woman in my life. You’re indeed my greatest blessing and I’m grateful for the gift of you. Thank you for all the sacrifices you’ve made just to see a better version of us. May this milestone year bring you endless joy, good health and all the love you deserve.
Happy birthday, Mummy. Your resilience and tenacity make you the best role model I’ve ever had! I pray God continues to bless and keep you.
Happy birthday to the most amazing woman on earth! I love you so much, Aunty.
Happy birthday, Mum! I have never known a world without your gentle spirit and for that, I will always be grateful. Thank you for inspiring all of us.
Cheers on your special day, Mama! Your light shines on everything with a warm glow. I am so lucky to call you mother, and I’m wishing you the best day ever!
Happy birthday to an amazing aunt and an incredible woman! On your special day, I want to celebrate the love, care, and guidance you’ve brought into my life. May this year be filled with joy, laughter, and all your heart’s desires.
Happy birthday, lil bro. I can’t believe it was just yesterday Mum brought a tiny bundle back from the hospital. I’m so proud of the young man you’re becoming. May God bless you for me.
Happy birthday to my favourite sister! I celebrate your amazing hard work as you clock a new age. God bless you.
To my amazing sister, Happy birthday! May this year bring you laughter, love, and all the success you desire.
Happy birthday, egbon mi. You are a big inspiration to me. I pray God continues to bless you and all you lay your hands on. Have an amazing day.
Happy birthday to the most beautiful troublemaker in the world! You are the best sister a person could ask for, and I’m so happy we are related. God bless you. Send me birthday outfit pics!
Happy birthday to my favourite member of this family. Our world changed for the better when you were born, and I’m so happy with the person you’re becoming. Have a blessed year.
To my favourite niece, on her birthday, I wish you the best of the year and wisdom that surpasses all understanding.
Happy birthday, little tiger! You are made up of all the best parts of your parents. I pray that you become successful, strong and blessed. Have a lovely one.
Happy birthday, princess! You are the apple of all our eyes, and I pray you never forget how loved you are here. Have a wonderful birthday today!
Happy birthday, my dear. I love how much you have changed in these short few years. I pray for even more evolutions and greater happiness for you.
Happy birthday to my precious nephew. On your special day, I pray Almighty Allah continues to protect and guide you, bless you with great wisdom, knowledge and understanding from above.
Professional Birthday Wishes for Coworkers or Managers
Best for: Workplace relationships and maintaining professional warmth.
Celebrate your coworker today!
Whether you work a 9-to-5 or remotely, acknowledging and celebrating your colleagues’ birthdays is important. It not only opens the door to friendships you may not have discovered but also helps teams bond and work more seamlessly.
“It’s nice to feel seen,” says Molayo, 25. “Sometimes, you can feel like a small cog in a really big machine. These birthday messages humanise us — that’s why I like them.”
Here are some great options you can drop on that Slack thread or send to them directly:
Wishing you a fantastic birthday! May this year bring you new achievements and great success.
Happy birthday! Hope you have a wonderful day and a great year ahead.
Happy birthday! You’re an inspirational and exemplary leader. Enjoy your special day!
Happy birthday, you legend! Wishing you more promotions and accomplishments on your special day!
Happy birthday, you legend! Wishing you more promotions and accomplishments on your special day!
Happy cake day! Thank you for being a light at the office.
Happy birthday, Ma. You are an inspiration to every young woman working hard in this company. May God continue to bless you.
Happy birthday to an icon. The work you do here is very special, and we appreciate you.
Happy birthday, boos! Your clarity of vision is an inspiration to the whole team. Have a blessed day ahead.
Happy birthday to the most versatile worker on the team! We appreciate you.
Happy birthday to an excellent worker. I hope you have the best birthday ever and your zeal for excellence never diminishes.
Cheers to your new age. May God grant you even more wisdom and success.
Wishing you a birthday filled with celebration and a year full of success. Happy birthday!
Happy birthday! Thank you for your guidance and support. Enjoy your special day!
Hope your birthday is as rewarding as the effort you put into leading our team. You inspire me to be better at my work.
Happy birthday! Wishing you a day of relaxation and a year of great accomplishments.
Wishing you the best of the year and beyond! Happy birthday, dear.
Happy birthday, desk bestie! I pray that God blesses you exceedingly this year.
Happy birthday to the best colleague a girl could ask for. Wishing you the best possible year ahead. Lunch is on me today.
Happiest birthday wishes to a hardworking and kind soul. I pray success finds you as easily as you find solutions at work.
Congratulations on your new age! God bless you and promote you to positions you’ve only ever dreamed of.
Best for: When you forgot to send a message on time but still want to acknowledge the day.
Here’s what to say when you forget their birthday.
Few things feel worse than forgetting the birthday of someone special to you. But no matter the reason, it’s never too late to reach out. That’s why we’ve curated a selection of thoughtful messages you can send to express your birthday wishes and make up for missing their big day.
“I was working back-to-back shifts after long classes, and I forgot my older sister’s birthday,” says Busola, 24. “I felt so bad. Thankfully, she forgave me after I messaged her and explained myself.”
I may be late, but my wishes for you are still the same: happiness, success, and all the best! Happy birthday.
Happy belated birthday wishes. The day got away from me but the love I have for you never will. Hope your day was fantastic!
Happy belated birthday! Hope your special day was filled with joy.
I can’t believe I missed your birthday! Please, forgive me and know that I’m celebrating you today. Happy belated birthday, dear!
I’m so sorry I missed your special day! Nevertheless, I’m wishing you best of the year and more blessings! Happy belated birthday and lots of love. Hope it was amazing.
I’m late to the party, but my wishes for you are just as heartfelt. Happy belated birthday, my friend!
Belated birthday hugs and wishes coming your way! I hope your day was as special as you are.
I missed the date, but I refuse to miss the chance to tell you how much you mean to me. Happy belated birthday!
Sorry for the late wishes, but I hope your birthday was as incredible as you are. Happy belated birthday.
Sorry for the belated wishes, but I hope your birthday was filled with love and happiness. Happy belated birthday.
Happy belated birthday, Ma. May God bless you and always be with you.
Sending you the best belated birthday wishes a day after. This doesn’t mean you are any less special to me. I’m praying for all the happiness in the world to be delivered to you!
I missed your birthday, but I’m making up for it with extra love and prayers today. Happy belated birthday!
My deepest apologies for missing your birthday yesterday. There’s no valid excuse for not celebrating a star like you. I’m wishing you the coolest and most wonderful belated birthday.
Belated birthday wishes to the love of my life. I hope your day was as amazing as you always are.
I’m so sorry I’m late, but my heart is always with you. Happy belated birthday, my love!
So sorry I missed your big day, my dear! Happy birthday to you! May your heart always lead you to the right path. Remain blessed.
Belated birthday wishes to you, my dear friend. I hope your day was as wonderful as you make my life.
We can’t overemphasize the importance of the right birthday messages. They not only light up the heart of the celebrant but also serve as a written testament that you care about them.
Never feel stuck again! Use any of the messages in this article as inspiration to make someone’s birthday special and even more memorable.
How to Write the Perfect Birthday Wish for a Nigerian
If you want to skip copying one of the examples above and come up with your own sweet birthday message, this guide is for you.
Who doesn’t love getting a wonderful birthday message?
Step 1: Start with a warm greeting
Don’t just barge into their inbox with a generic birthday wish and an exclamation mark. Kick-off with a warm greeting and follow it up with a kind wish.
“When I’m wishing an older person a Happy birthday, I make sure I start with a greeting before they say I’m rude or disrespectful,” says Moyin, 22.
Example:
“Happy birthday, sir! May today be filled with happiness for you.”
Step 2: Add a personal touch
Is this someone you’ve known for a long time? Sprinkle in some good memories or a call back to the years you have shared with them for a personal touch.
“I love weaving inside jokes into the birthday messages I send my friends,” says Amaka, 27. “It highlights how special our relationship is to me.”
Example:
“Happy birthday, Chizzy! I can’t believe how grown up we are now. Here’s to more years celebrating together.”
Step 3: Include a blessing or prayer
A lot of Nigerians are deeply religious, so including a birthday prayer or blessing is a sure-fire way to warm their heart and let them know you wish them the best on their special day.
“You must never exclude God from anything, especially when it comes to the blessing of seeing another year,” says Iyabo, 56. ”If you love someone, you pray for them so God can keep them till another birthday.”
Example:
“Happy birthday, gurl! May God bless you and shower you with endless blessings.”
Step 4: Keep it light or add humour (Optional)
If you’re writing a birthday message to a friend or someone you’re very close to, feel free to add some light banter. Weave in an inside joke or a funny one-liner to make the celebrant laugh out loud when they read it.
“Me and my friends’ messages are full of constant back-and-forth banter,” says Feranmi, 19. ”Why won’t I include jokes in their birthday messages? It’s very important o.”
Example:
“Happy birthday, my G! May the ATM never swallow your card, may they always have change for your 1k, and I pray your lane never has traffic. Have a good one!”
Step 5: Close with love and warmth
End your birthday message with a warm sign-off to add the perfect finishing touch.
“I truly believe people can feel your sincerity through your texts, even when they can’t see you,” says Grace, 29.
Example:
“Happy birthday, babe. You’re a star through and through. Wishing you the most perfect day ever because you deserve it!”
A well-crafted birthday message should look like:
Happy birthday, bestie! We’ve come a long way from being those tiny JSS 1 students, haven’t we? May today be as bright and joyful as your heart. Wishing you love, success, and many more amazing years ahead!
7 Questions about Birthday Wishes Nigerians Have
1. How can I send a birthday wish?
You can send birthday wishes through various platforms. What truly matters is that the celebrant reads your message and feels your appreciation.
Share your wishes on platforms they use regularly, such as Instagram, Facebook, Slack (for coworkers), WhatsApp, Snapchat, or X. After all, there’s no point in sending a message on Snapchat if they only open it once a year during Detty December.
For a thoughtful touch, consider delivering a handwritten letter or birthday card. The old-fashioned approach often earns many heartfelt “aww”s.
2. How long should a birthday wish be?
The length depends on your relationship with the celebrant. Short, sweet wishes are perfect for acquaintances or coworkers, maintaining a polite distance. However, if you send a one-liner to your partner, you might end up trending on Instablog — and deservedly so.
Save longer, heartfelt messages for family, close friends, or significant others. That said, a meaningful message doesn’t need to read like a novel. You can express your feelings without making the message a chore to read.
3. Who should you send a birthday wish to?
There’s no rule limiting who deserves birthday messages. While it’s understandable to skip your enemies, you can still send warm wishes to internet friends and acquaintances.
In Nigeria, it’s common to send heartfelt messages to family and friends, but acknowledging colleagues, mentors, managers, and bosses is also polite. Even a brief, cordial wish can brighten someone’s day.
4. What if the person didn’t send me a birthday wish on my birthday?
Not receiving a birthday wish from someone can sting, but it shouldn’t dictate your kindness. If you value the person, send your wishes anyway. They might have missed your birthday unintentionally. Besides, sending your wishes sets the tone for grace and goodwill
5. What makes a birthday wish special?
A truly special birthday wish highlights what you appreciate about the person, whether it’s their hard work, kindness, or your shared memories. Adding personal touches such as prayers, inside jokes, or unique well-wishes makes your message memorable and heartfelt.
6. Should you send a birthday wish every year?
Yes, o! Birthdays come once a year, and those closest to you — family, friends, and partners — will expect your wishes annually.
For acquaintances or former coworkers, a birthday message is thoughtful but not required. Overwhelmed because they’re popular? Don’t stress. One sincere message is enough. Just don’t double-text them paragraphs in the name of birthday wishes.
7. What should you avoid when sending a birthday wish?
Even though most birthday wishes are appreciated, some blunders should be avoided at all costs:
Don’t lecture: It’s their birthday, not an evaluation session.
Avoid offensive jokes: Humour should be lighthearted, not hurtful. Never joke about sensitive topics like family losses.
No shouting in all caps: You’re not Odumodu, calm down.
Spell their name correctly: Nothing ruins a wish like “Happy Birthday, Chinamza” instead of “Chinasa.”
Put effort into it: “HBD, WULLP” won’t cut it. Use one of our simple birthday message templates instead.
Don’t compare their birthday to others: Let them enjoy their special moment without comparisons.
There’s nothing funny about being a broke student. The endless “bro, abeg” texts, checking your account balance like money will suddenly appear, and doing mental maths to see if your last ₦5k can cover data, transport, food, and a little flex.
But students across Nigeria have also managed to escape this struggle. From managing social media pages to editing videos and even gaming, students like you have figured out legitimate ways to make money online.
We spoke to some of them, and here’s what you need to know about how to make money online as a student in Nigeria.
7 Real Ways Nigerian Students Are Making Money Online
Good news: you don’t have to be broke when the internet exists. Here are 7 online income streams every student should know:
1. Social Media Management
Remember when your parents said, “You’re always on that phone”? Jokes on them because some students are getting paid to do exactly that. Social media managers handle Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok pages for businesses, keeping them active, engaging, and growing.
This is how Ameen, a 20-year-old third-year engineering student, is making it work:
“I started doing Canva designs as a side hustle for extra cash in April 2024. I set up a Fiverr gig, and one day, a podcast brand in Manhattan reached out. At first, it was just small, one-off projects, but they kept coming back.
After a few months of back-and-forth projects, we took things off Fiverr and started communicating over email. That’s when they put me on a $200/month retainer to handle their Instagram designs and upload content on YouTube, Facebook and TikTok. I have Zoom meetings with my client once a week, where we strategise different ways to expand the brand’s visibility and reach.
It’s not been difficult balancing it with my engineering degree. Once I schedule everything, I barely have to think about the workload.”
How to get started:
Build an online presence: Grow your audience and treat your social media account like a portfolio.
Get hands-on experience: Manage a friend’s business page, intern for a brand, or offer free services to a small business to build your portfolio.
Master the Right Tools: Learn Canva (designs), Meta Business Suite (scheduling Instagram and Facebook posts), and Hootsuite or Buffer to manage multiple platforms simultaneously.
Find Clients: Cold pitch your services to small businesses or professionals on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Upwork.
Everyone — from TikTok influencers to YouTubers — needs a good editor. If you can turn raw footage into a crisp, engaging video, you’re sitting on a skill that pays.
This is how Khaerat, a 19-year-old fourth-year law student, is making it work:
“I started creating video content on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok in my second year in uni, just for fun. But I was building a portfolio without realising it, and it landed me paying gigs.
I got my first gig in May 2024, about a year after I started editing videos for social media. I get paid according to my rate card. Right now, I have four video editing gigs: three pay me ₦50K each, and one pays ₦100K. I also juggle an ₦80K social media management job, all alongside my law degree.
Since I work best at night, I batch-edit my videos and designs to stay on top of everything. It’s also my way of unwinding from the demands of studying law.
I’ve landed all my jobs by simply tweeting about my work or commenting under posts to offer my services. It doesn’t feel overwhelming because I enjoy what I do, and with more experience, I’ve gained the confidence to charge higher and ditch toxic clients.
I use CapCut for editing, Canva for designs and Buffer to create and schedule content. After school, I plan to continue doing this alongside my legal career, especially since I’m going into corporate or business law—not litigation. I know my earning potential will grow when I have more time to take on bigger projects.”
How to get started:
Learn the basics: Start with free editing apps like CapCut, InShot or DaVinci Resolve before moving to more advanced software like Adobe Premiere Pro.
Offer free or discounted work: Edit videos for small content creators or friends for proof of work.
Create a portfolio: Showcase your best work on platforms like Google Drive, Behance, or a simple Instagram/Twitter thread.
Engage on social media: Post snippets of your work, engage with content creators and offer your services on these platforms.
Find paid gigs: Start freelancing on Fiverr and Upwork, and use Twitter and LinkedIn to network.
Charge your worth: Set competitive rates based on your skill level, but don’t undersell yourself. Increase your prices as you gain more experience.
Stay updated: Video trends change fast. Keep up with editing styles, effects, and platform-specific content demands.
Build client relationships: Deliver quality work, communicate clearly, and retain long-term clients by being reliable.
3. E-commerce
Some students aren’t waiting for jobs; they’re creating them. From selling thrift clothes to launching skincare brands, e-commerce is thriving.
This is how Hikmat, a 22-year-old final-year Botany student, is making it work:
“I sell skincare products and get customers through WhatsApp, TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram. My Whatsapp catalogue makes ordering easy, and most of my customers are students in my hostel, department, and across campus.
I stock up on sheet masks, lip and eye masks, pimple patches, and nose pore strips from a Chinese e-commerce website (1688) through an agent.
My first order cost ₦70k and included 160 sheet masks, 100 lip and eye masks plus shipping fee. Since I started in June 2024, I’ve made three times that amount in profit. In my first week alone, I pulled in ₦25k. I’ve restocked at least twice since then. However, I use sea shipping, which takes 2–3 months. I find that it’s best to order in bulk.
On an average month, I make ₦35k to ₦40k; on a bad month, ₦10k. But on a good month, I make ₦50k. Skincare is huge among students right now, so I knew I was tapping into the right market. My earnings fluctuate because I haven’t been consistent.
I started this business because my ₦20k monthly allowance wasn’t cutting it, and I didn’t want to burden my family.
I recommend starting this business if you have enough capital to buy in bulk. The competition is tough, and many sellers drop their prices just to attract customers. It only works if you’re buying at scale.”
How to get started:
Do your market research: Understand what sells and who your target audience is.
Choose a product with demand: Items like thrift clothes, skincare products, accessories, and gadgets are in high demand among students.
Source Smartly: Buy from local markets or platforms like 1688/Alibaba.
Choose the right channels: Sell on the right social media platforms (TikTok, Twitter, Instagram). By creating engaging content, you get free marketing.
Market your business: Build visibility and attract customers.
Manage your finances: Track earnings, reinvest and scale your business.
4. Graphic Design
Logos, flyers, business cards, social media graphics; if you can design them, someone will pay you.
This is how Korede, a 22-year-old final-year Computer Science student, is making it work:
Korede, 22 (400 level, Computer Science)
“I was in 200 level when I realised I could make money from design. We had a class assignment, and my lecturer singled out my work as one of the best. But since what I study is programming-heavy, that one design class wasn’t enough. I wanted more. So, I started practising and sharing my work on WhatsApp, and before I knew it, someone paid me ₦5K for a logo. That was shocking because I survived on a ₦3k weekly allowance at the time.
I grew curious, obsessed and hungry for knowledge, but I didn’t have a laptop. So, I borrowed from friends and installed Corel Draw on a flash drive. A coursemate taught me the basics in a week, and I spent hours sitting behind students who designed after lecture hours, watching them navigate the software. That’s how I found Photoshop. It was tough at first, but I found a mentor on YouTube.
Now, I don’t even have to post my work. Referrals keep me busy, and I make between ₦500k and ₦700k monthly. I design at least 15 graphics daily—party flyers, social media graphics, stickers, logos, banners, etc. I also work a design internship at a Nigerian EdTech company, earning ₦80K/month. On Fiverr, I do photo manipulation gigs and regular designs, making around $250–$300 monthly. Occasionally, I design branding assets for UK wedding and event brands. I won’t lie — I spend a lot of it on food because I never imagined making this much. But the workload is insane. My grades have dropped, and I have no social life. Sometimes, I skip class to meet deadlines. It’s draining, so I plan to cut down on party flyers and new recommendations and focus on my internship and Fiverr. The money is sweet, but I still need to graduate.
How to get started:
Learn a design tool: Start with Photoshop or Illustrator.
Build a portfolio: Offer free designs to small businesses and build a portfolio on Instagram and Behance.
Show your work: Post consistently on social media.
List your services: Sign up on Fiverr and Upwork.
Keep improving: Take online courses and study trends.
5. Ghostwriting
If you have a way with words, ghostwriting can be a lucrative hustle. Clients pay well for high-quality, anonymous content, from fiction to nonfiction and blog posts. You just need to know where to find them.
This is how Catherine, a 21-year-old final-year Human Physiology student, is making it work:
“I ghostwrite fiction for an international web novel company in the U.S., earning $300 per book. If a book performs well on the app, I get a bonus of $50 to $100, which pushes up my monthly earnings. It’s basically a 9-5, except I don’t leave my house.
I also take up side gigs on freelance platforms when I have time.
Before this, I earned ₦60k a month doing outsourced work for Nigerian writers who landed big gigs but paid me peanuts. Over time, I gained confidence and started charging my worth. Now, I source my own international clients on Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn and get paid in dollars directly.
The company I currently write for is similar to Wattpad, and they even have a partner company that adapts books into short telenovela films and repurposes them into bite-sized paid ads for platforms like Snapchat.My Nigerian friend, who currently works as a senior editor at the company, recommended me, and it’s been a great experience since I started working there in July 2023.
I typically write one book a month, but sometimes I push for two. When I write a full-length novel, the word count is 150,000 per book, while novellas are about 100,000 words.
Writing romance may seem easy, but it’s brutal. Some clients make me edit the same document 10 times before they’re satisfied. I put in about 80 hours a week, balancing school and deadlines.
I primarily work between lectures and late at night, but on free days, I wake up, check pending tasks, and grind all day. The workload can be overwhelming — tasks pile up, my head feels full, and sometimes, I just completely shut down. Now that I’m in my final year, juggling my thesis and writing is even harder, so I’m trying to cut back before it burns me out completely.
Will I keep ghostwriting after school? Yes. Will I do it full-time forever? Hell no. If I could start over, I’d charge my worth from day one. I let people underpay and exploit me at first, but never again.”
How to get started:
Pick a niche: Specialise in a specific area to stand out and attract clients.
Create a portfolio: Start small. Write Twitter threads, Medium articles, or LinkedIn posts to showcase your writing style.
Find clients: List your services on Fiverr, Upwork, and LinkedIn platforms.
Set your rates: Research how much ghostwriters in your niche earn and charge accordingly. Don’t undersell your work.
Write your own work: Avoid relying on AI to generate content. Clients pay for originality and creativity. If you must use AI, limit it to best practices: research, brainstorming, or light editing.
Stay consistent: The more you write, the better you get. Deliver high-quality work on time, follow briefs carefully, and build relationships with clients for long-term success.
6. Crypto Jobs
The crypto space is more than buying Bitcoin — it’s a whole economy. Some students trade, some play games to earn, and others take Crypto jobs.
This is how Fehin, a 21-year-old third-year History & International Relations student, is making it work:
“I make between $200 and $500 monthly from crypto jobs, but my highest monthly earnings have been up to $1,000. I got into crypto out of curiosity; I wanted to know how to make money online in Nigeria.
I started by learning the basics, trading, and immersing myself in crypto communities. Now, I manage social media pages, primarily on Twitter and Discord, for big projects and communities and create content to drive engagement. I also take ambassador roles because I’ve grown my crypto Twitter following to 6000 plus.
Most of my gigs come from networking on Twitter. I got my current role because I was active in the community, engaging with projects and applying for ambassador programs. I dedicate 15–20 hours weekly to my crypto jobs, depending on my school workload.
The hardest part is managing time during exams. I schedule tasks in advance and focus on high-priority work. I plan to go into the crypto space full-time after school. If I had to start over, I’d prioritise networking and building a strong personal brand on Crypto Twitter earlier.
My advice? Learn valuable real-life skills: content creation, social media management, research, etc., be active in communities, and don’t be afraid to apply for roles. Networking and consistency are everything.”
How to get started:
Learn the basics: Use YouTube and online resources to understand the fundamentals of crypto.
Establish a social identity: Build your presence on Crypto Twitter and grow your reputation by engaging in discussions and sharing insights.
Penetrate communities: Look for active crypto communities to join on Telegram and Discord.
Look for job opportunities: Explore Telegram, Discord, Twitter and crypto job listing platforms for opportunities. (CryptoJobsList, SuperteamEarn, etc.)
Apply and Network Relentlessly: Engage with community members and build connections.
7. Virtual Assistance
If you’re good at handling tasks, replying to emails, or keeping things organised, you can make money as a Virtual Assistant (VA). Entrepreneurs, influencers, and busy professionals need help managing their workload and are willing to pay for it.
This is how Grace, a 21-year-old third-year Engineering Physics student, is making it work:
“I make an average of ₦120K monthly as a Virtual Assistant (VA).
I recently worked with a medical student, helping her source and compile data into readable files for her research. The contract lasted a month and paid well.
I got the job through a friend after consistently sharing my work and learning journey on social media. Building in public — documenting my training, progress, projects, and wins — helped me get noticed.
I started earning four months after completing my VA training on ALX Africa in 2024. My highest monthly earnings so far is ₦150K. Before this, I got ₦20K monthly from home — barely enough for transport, feeding, and study materials.
The job takes about 30 hours a week, which can be intense, but time management helps me balance it with school. I wake up early to complete tasks before class and structure my work hours around my school timetable. I also avoid taking on new projects during exams.
If you want to become a Virtual Assistant, get proper training, master tools like Trello, Calendly, Google Workspace, Notion, and Canva, and find a mentor. Most importantly, put yourself out there—opportunities come when you stay visible and consistent.”
How to Get Started:
Identify your skills: Stick to what you’re good at, whether it’s email management, data entry, research, customer service, or social media.
Learn the basics: Master tools like Google Workspace, Trello, Asana, and Notion with free courses on Coursera, ALX Africa, or YouTube.
Set your rates: VAs in Nigeria earn ₦80K₦468K/month (Glassdoor). Start low, gain experience, and charge what you’re worth.
Find your first client: If needed, skip Fiverr and Upwork, network on Twitter and LinkedIn, and ask around. Referrals work magic.
Create a simple portfolio: Show what you can do with sample emails, calendar schedules, or task management templates.
Sign a Contract First: Protect yourself with a contract covering payment terms, tasks, availability, and confidentiality. No contract? Big red flag.
Bottom Line
Making money online as a student in Nigeria isn’t rocket science. Pick one skill, start learning today, stay consistent and put yourself out there. Nobody will hand you money for free, but if you put in the work, urgent ₦2k will never be your portion again.
Investing sounds simple: put your money somewhere and watch it grow. But if you’re a Muslim, it’s not that straightforward.
Many investment options in Nigeria aren’t always halal-compliant. But it doesn’t mean you can’t invest; there are ethical and profitable ways to grow your money without compromising your faith.
We spoke to an Islamic Finance professional and two Nigerian Muslims who are actively into Halal investments. Here’s a breakdown of what they told us about navigating Halal investments in Nigeria.
What is Halal Investing?
With conventional investments, you deposit money in a bank, earn interest, and move on. You don’t ask if they’re using your money to fund breweries, adult entertainment or pork businesses. You just collect your returns.
But Halal investments don’t work that way. They’re built on moral ethics, social responsibility and transparency. When you invest through Islamic banks, you know exactly where your money is going. Your funds are invested in actual businesses, and the profit is shared fairly. And if the business fails to make profits, the depositor takes the loss, just like in a real business.
In Halal investing, money cannot generate profit on its own or be used as a lending tool to earn interest. Instead, it must be invested ethically in businesses or assets that generate profit through permissible means.
1. No Interest (Riba) – Money Shouldn’t Make Money by Itself
Interest-based earnings like fixed deposit savings are considered haram. Your money should be actively invested in real businesses to generate profits.
2. No Haram Industries – If You Can’t Eat It or Do It, Don’t Invest in It
Any business involved in alcohol,gambling, adult content, pork or practices Islam considers unethical is off-limits. Your money should only fund enterprises that align with Islamic values.
3. No Excessive Risk or Speculation (Gharar) – No Gambling with Your Money
Investments should be transparent and low-risk. Anything that involves uncertainty and betting on price swings, like forex trading, is considered haram.
4. Ethical and Social Responsibility – Your Money Should Actually Do Good
Halal investing supports businesses that positively impact society, like healthcare, education, sustainable energy, and ethical banking.
5. Risk and Profit Sharing – Everyone Wins (or Loses) Together
Instead of guaranteed, fixed-interest returns, halal investments operate on profit-sharing models. You make money when the business makes money and share losses if it doesn’t—just like real business partners.
Where Can You Invest The Halal Way?
Islamic Finance professional Oluwafemi Oyelehin breaks down some of the halal investment options available in Nigeria:
1. Real Estate
Real estate is one of the safest and most popular halal investment options because it is tied to tangible assets (physical land and buildings). You can legitimately generate income from renting as long as the property is used for halal purposes. But not all real estate investments are automatically Halal —how you finance or use the property matters.
How to invest in Real Estate:
Buying property outright: If you can afford to pay the full price at once, this is the simplest way to acquire property. It grants you immediate ownership, but it’s crucial to ensure it’s used for permissible purposes.
Islamic financing options: Loans that include interest are not permissible. If you need financial assistance, non-interest Islamic banks like Jaiz offer Halal alternatives to traditional mortgages (property loans).
Here’s how they work:
Musharakah (Joint Ownership):
You and the bank co-own the property and share profits.
Over time, you gradually buy out their share until the property is 100% yours.
There is no interest, just shared investments.
Ijarah (Islamic Leasing) – Rent-to-Own, the Halal Way:
The bank fully owns the property and leases it to you
You make agreed payments over time until you fully own the property.
Essentially, you’re paying rent while you use the property, and at the end of the lease, you ultimately gain full ownership.
There is no interest, no hidden fees, just a structured way to own property over time.
2. Halal Compliant Stocks
Investing in stocks is Halal, but only if you know where your money is going.
Think of it this way: You wouldn’t want your money funding weapons manufacturing or a brewery, right? That’s why not all stocks are Halal. Before investing, you need to double-check what the company does.
How to Invest in Halal Stocks:
Avoid companies involved in interest-based finance (banks), gambling, alcohol, or unethical industries.
Islamic bank stocks are a safer option. These operate under Shariah principles, ensuring compliance with Halal investment rules.
Check where your money goes. Stocks like MTN, Tesla, Google, and Nestlé are generally Halal Investment options because they provide essential goods and services.
Halal stocks earn through profit-sharing, not interest. Your returns come from business growth and profits, not lending money at fixed interest rates.
Easier options include the Halal Mutual Fund, such as the FSDH Halal Fund, Lotus Capital Halal Investment Fund and the Cordros fixed income fund. They pool funds from multiple individuals to invest in a diversified portfolio of halal-compliant stocks and other asset-backed halal investments. Instead of researching individual stocks yourself, the fund managers handle the halal screening for you.
At its core, investing in Halal stocks is like providing venture capital for ethical businesses. You’re good to go as long as their operations align with Islamic principles.
3. Commodity Trading
Commodity trading is one of the oldest and simplest ways to grow your money theHalal way. Instead of earning interest, you profit by buying and selling authentic, tangible goods.
Here’s how it works:
Buy low, sell higher, and profit fairly: For example, buy a stereo for ₦25,000 and sell it for ₦30,000. Both you and the buyer benefit.
Trade real, valuable assets: Invest in oil, wheat, or agricultural products, as long as they’re ethically sourced.
Bank-backed trading: You invest in a car purchase, the buyer pays over time, and you share a pre-agreed profit with the bank.
There is no interest, no hidden fees, just transparent, ethical transactions.
4. Gold
Gold is a real, tangible asset, making it 100% Halal if bought and traded correctly. Unlike regular currencies that can be devalued by inflation, gold holds its intrinsic value and has been used as a store of wealth for centuries.
5. Islamic Insurance (Takaful)
Traditional insurance can be problematic in Islam because it often involves interest, uncertainty, and gambling (Maisir). That’s where Takaful comes in: a fair, ethical, and Halal alternative.
How Takaful Works:
Community-based protection: Members pool their money into a shared fund to support anyone who experiences a loss (medical bills, car damage, or life insurance payouts).
No Interest or gambling: Unlike conventional insurance, Takaful avoids unethical investments and speculative risks.
Fair and transparent: If nothing happens to you, your money isn’t lost; it stays in the fund or is distributed fairly among members.
It covers everything: Health, life, car, and business insurance—all in a Halal way.
Islamic insurance companies like Noor Takaful offer this ethical insurance option in Nigeria. It’s a win-win: financial protection without compromising your faith.
6. Islamic Bonds Sukuk
Traditional bonds like the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN Bonds) are considered Haram because they pay an interest rate; you lend the government money and earn fixed returns.
How Sukuk Works:
No Interest, just profit-sharing: Investors own a share of an actual project and profit from its success.
Full transparency: You know exactly where your money is going, whether it’s funding roads, hospitals, or schools.
Backed by tangible assets: Unlike regular bonds, Sukuk investments are tied to real projects, making them safer and more ethical.
Ever seen a green signboard with “Sukuk Funded Section” or “Sukuk III, IV or V” on Nigerian roads? If you’re in Lagos, there’s one in Victoria Island and Marina. These roads were built with Sukuk funds, and investors received returns from their use.
Two Muslim Nigerians Share Their Halal Investment Journey
Amina* (31, Medical Doctor)
I started thinking about investing when I earned my first income during my medical internship in 2019. At first, I considered treasury bills, but a Muslim colleague told me they weren’t Halal. I kept saving my money since I knew no other halal investment options and couldn’t afford real estate.
By 2021, I gave my savings to a friend trading crypto and got decent returns, but I wasn’t sure if it was Halal. Later, in early 2022, another friend recommended Risevest. They had different investment options, but my Muslim friend advised me to stick with their real estate plan.
I invest naira every month, which they convert to dollars. Once my plan matures, I can withdraw with returns. This is considered Halal because my funds are pooled and used to purchase a property in the U.S., which is then rented out and managed by experts to generate rental returns for me. It’s a medium-risk investment, and I earn between 12% and 15% returns annually.
Ahmed* (32, Business owner)
I started a Halal investment group five years ago when I realised many Muslims like me wanted to grow their money the right way. Today, we’re a community of 70 investors pooling funds into ethical stocks, tech startups, and agricultural commodities (Halal mutual fund), with an investment portfolio now worth $200,000.
If I can’t easily confirm that a company’s operations are Halal, I simply don’t invest.
Bottom Line
Halal investments are about building wealth correctly while staying true to your faith. Whether you’re investing in real estate, Islamic bonds, gold, or halal-compliant stocks, the goal is ethical growth, zero interest, and financial security.
The best part? You can have both; you don’t have to compromise between faith and financial success. So before your next investment, ask yourself: “Is my money working for me in a halal way?” If the answer is yes, you’re already winning.
Every estate WhatsApp group in Nigeria is a social experiment gone wrong — a chaotic mix of serious discussions, unnecessary arguments, and random people who never actually contribute but somehow always type “Noted.”
Here are 10 people you’ll definitely meet in any estate WhatsApp group chat.
1. The Chairman
The chairman who takes their admin role a little too seriously — acting like they were elected to run a small country. They believe every decision, no matter how small, must go through them, but God forbid you ask them to account for the donation you dropped last month.
Typical message:
2. The Warrior
The warrior is always in the mood to fight. No issue is too small or irrelevant to warrant a long, unnecessary paragraph that’s filled with receipts and dripping with condescension. They don’t even argue to win, they do it for the chance to call a neighbour an “Ode.”
Typical message:
3. The Creeper
The creeper is always online but never speaks. They read every single message, sometimes within seconds of it dropping, but the only proof of their existence is the occasional ‘thumbs up’ they give an announcement every quarter.
Typical message:
4. The Broadcaster
The broadcaster always starts their day with a generic “Good morning” message, followed by an image of a dove with glitter effects. Then by noon, they’re forwarding insane ‘news’ like “Scientists confirm eating fufu causes cancer.”
Typical message:
“My deeply spiritual sister sent a voice note to our family WhatsApp group, saying someone was working to bring us down. For context, the group includes our parents and all six siblings.“
The complainer has more hate in their heart for the estate than everyone in the group combined. In fact, if they haven’t complained about NEPA, the way a visitor parked or someone’s dog in the last 24 hours, you should probably break down their door to make sure they’re still alive.
Typical message:
6. The Peacemaker
The peacemaker is the self-appointed referee of the group, always trying to settle arguments before they turn into a full-blown war. But their attempts at diplomacy never work, and they usually just end up frustrated.
Typical message:
7. The Rebel
The rebel, who is most likely Gen Z, has no respect for the sham of a system. If the chairman announces a new rule or a random levy, they are the first to question it. They will argue with every elder in the group, skillfully using sarcasm as their superpower.
Typical message:
[ad]
8. The Corporate Beggar
The corporate beggar has a lot in common with the creepy observer, except their silence is not to be mistaken for disinterest in the group’s activities. They have a simple job of profiling everyone and planning when to attack best. So, you won’t find their messages in the group, but it sure as well will be in your DM.
Typical message:
9. The Exiter
This one has a bloated sense of self-importance and makes it a point for other neighbours to bear witness to their pride. They’re quick to exit the group and only return after the chairman and other self-appointed excos have begged them.
Typical message:
10. The Vendor
They barely know what’s happening in the estate because, to them, home is just where they sleep, their real home is their store. They rarely engage in estate discussions unless it involves a market run or something that needs to be bought (which they always volunteer for). And no matter how heated an argument gets, trust them to slide in an advert for their business.
Meme coins are a class of crypto driven by wildly resonant memes, hype, narratives, and internet culture rather than actual use cases. Think of them as the crypto equivalent of a viral trend. They can blow up overnight, make some people rich, and then disappear just as fast.
Despite having no fundamental value, meme coins have made people overnight millionaires and bankrupted them just as quickly.
We spoke to four Nigerian meme coin traders who have experienced the madness firsthand. From wild profits to crushing losses, here’s what they said.
Wale, 25, Crypto Twitter Influencer: “I turned $400 to $22k with a meme coin.”
In September 2024, I bought 224,000 units of a meme coin called BabyBNB for $400. Five days later, I made $22,000. This is how it happened.
Some context: I stumbled on BabyBNB during a random Twitter scroll. The meme coin was a spin-off of BNB (Binance Coin), a cryptocurrency issued by Binance, the largest crypto exchange in the world.
While the original BNB has been used to facilitate payments and trades since 2017, this spinoff had no clear utility or purpose. But it didn’t matter.
Meme coins thrive on hype, and Binance was all the rage on Twitter because of a scandal: Changpeng Zhao (CZ), who founded the crypto exchange, had just been released from a four-month sentence. This shot BNB’s price through the moon, and meme coin traders quickly capitalised on the trend.
BabyBNB launched on September 27, the same day Binance founder Zhao was released. I started buying large units at fractions of cents: $50 here, $100 there, and slowly built my position. The prices took off on the first day, and I started taking profits immediately. In just a few hours, I sold the first 36,000 units for $3,600.
The price peaked at $0.143 per unit on the third day, and I offloaded almost everything. I knew it was time to sell because early buyers with significant holdings had started taking their profit and offloading the coin. I figured they knew something I didn’t, and that was my signal to sell.
Imagine stocking 224,000 litres of petrol at ₦180 per litre. Three days later, fuel scarcity hits, and the price jumps to ₦600 per litre. You sell everything at the peak and cash out big before things return to normal. That was exactly what this was. I withdrew all my money in five days and locked in $22k. I turned ₦600K to ₦33 million with one insane gamble.
Baby BNB is practically worthless today. If I had held onto my coins, they’d be worth $274. That’s the thing about meme coins; you either take your profits when you can or cry later.
Abdul*, 24, Community Moderator: “I turned $670 into $11K overnight with $TRUMP.”
January 17, 2025, was a regular Friday until it wasn’t. I returned from the gym, showered, and dozed off briefly. When I woke up at midnight, my night turned into absolute madness.
I sat down to my usual routine of filtering through meme coin updates, looking for my next potential stake. Around 4 a.m., a friend sent me an update on Telegram: Donald Trump had launched an official meme coin.
It was three days before his inauguration, and the announcement was right there on his Twitter account.
The idea of a U.S. president-elect launching a meme coin for quick returns was insane, and I was sceptical, fearing it was a scam. Reputable accounts get hacked on Twitter, and this meme coin was riding on a political trend.
I caved when I saw that the market value had exploded from zero to $4 billion a few hours after launch.
Something big was happening.
I threw in $670, and my money increased to $1,600 in the blink of an eye. I quickly took out $800, which was enough to cover my initial stake and secure some profit. Then I went to sleep.
I woke up a few hours later and was in utter disbelief when I checked my balance. My wallet had $11,000 in it. I withdrew everything instantly; I didn’t spend a second mulling over it.
I had learned not to be over-greedy. Even though I was technically greedy for leaving the remaining money overnight, it was something I could afford to lose.
On October 18th 2024, I went in with $2,000. But when the value started dropping significantly, I panicked and sold for a brutal $1,300 loss. As if my village people were personally mocking me, the damn coin took off.
I watched in horror as $Fartcoin’s value skyrocketed.
What followed was an emotional rollercoaster. On the first day, the market cap shot up to $4 million before it crashed to $2 million. I thought, “Yeah, I made the right call.”
A day later, the market cap exploded to $25 million. Five days later? It was back down to $6 million. That was a 70% drop. I thought I’d dodged a bullet, so I bailed and dumped everything.
But from that $6 million low, $Fartcoin blew past $100 million, to $500 million, to $1.3 billion, and then its peak of $2 billion. I would have turned my $2,000 into $600,000 if I had held my position. Instead, I walked away with a loss.
Meme coins brutally test your patience. No trader likes to lose because it seriously wrecks your confidence. It’s always better to walk away with something than to watch your money vanish into thin air. That’s why I made my decision.
I’ve learned my lesson, though. In meme coin trading, fear is your worst enemy. If you panic, you lose. If you get greedy, you definitely lose. And If you hesitate, you’ll miss out on money that could have changed your life. But the real test is knowing whether to hold or sell. I made the wrong call, and it cost me dearly.
Mark*, 31, Software Developer: “I’m a sore loser. I put $800 in meme coins and lost it all.”
I started trading meme coins in November 2024. Bitcoin had recently hit $100k, and the entire crypto market gained new momentum. Everyone was making money except me.
I had some agricultural investments, but I was looking for ways to diversify my portfolio and generate quick returns. That’s when I learned about meme coins.
At first, I played it safe. I’d take $10 out of my monthly income, convert it to crypto on an exchange platform like Bybit, and then trade it on pump-fun. Then I started buying different meme coins: $50 here, another $300 and $400 there. Before I knew it, I had put in $800, and everything crashed to zero in minutes.
I hoped I’d catch the next big meme coin and make a 10,000% profit. It’s simple: I’d buy large units early and wait for hype to increase demand. Before I knew it, the price would have multiplied.
But I’m a sore loser. I bought, held, and lost everything. I watched the coins pump, but I didn’t take profit; I was gunning for the highest.
Since November, I’ve traded at least 50 meme coins and lost every time. My wallet is still full of them, but they’re worthless.
I’ve lost everything, and I’ll probably lose again. But as long as there’s a shot at life-changing money, I will continue to trade meme coins.
Bottom line
Meme coin trading is like sports betting in a suit. You might get lucky, but most times, you won’t. If you can’t afford to lose the money, think twice before staking it. Most importantly, do your own research.
